Panic as Passengers Escape Smoke-Filled Train on Athens Metro

Passengers on an Athens metro train were forced to self-evacuate earlier today after smoke filled the carriages, with some reportedly jumping onto the tracks in a panic.

The incident occurred at approximately noon on Wednesday on an ISAP Line 1 train travelling between Neratziotissa and Irini stations. Passengers first noticed smoke coming from beneath the train and quickly pulled the emergency brake.

According to STASY, the train operator, passengers then began to self-evacuate, with some reportedly forcing open doors and jumping onto the tracks before the train had come to a complete stop.

The driver, alerted by the emergency brake, cut power to the train and contacted the control center. This action also halted a train travelling in the opposite direction at Neratziotissa station.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Firefighters arrived at the scene and extinguished a fire that had broken out beneath the train. An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway.

Following the incident, service on Line 1 was disrupted with trains running only between Piraeus and Heraklion stations, and then later to Irini. Normal service has since resumed.

In a statement, STASY confirmed that the fire did not originate within the train itself and that the vehicle sustained no visible damage. The train has been taken to a depot for further inspection.

This incident highlights the importance of remaining calm and following safety procedures during emergencies on public transport.